U.S. patent application number 16/374391 was filed with the patent office on 2019-10-17 for system and method for indicating torque.
This patent application is currently assigned to Snap-on Incorporated. The applicant listed for this patent is Snap-on Incorporated. Invention is credited to Jerry A. King, Nathan J. Lee, Donald J. Reynertson.
Application Number | 20190314962 16/374391 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 68160159 |
Filed Date | 2019-10-17 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190314962 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
King; Jerry A. ; et
al. |
October 17, 2019 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INDICATING TORQUE
Abstract
The present invention relates to torque application tools, such
as a torque screwdriver and ratchet tools, with one or more light
indicators disposed in a ring shape around the tool. The light
indicators are adapted to indicate amounts of torque values and/or
angle values as the tool is used to tighten or install a work
piece. For example, the light indicators may flash at a first
flashing rate, when about 40% of a target torque or angle value is
applied; flash at a second flashing rate (greater or faster than
the first flashing rate) when about 60% of the target torque or
angle value is applied; and illuminate at a solid state when about
80% of the target torque or angle value is applied.
Inventors: |
King; Jerry A.; (Hacienda
Heights, CA) ; Lee; Nathan J.; (Escondido, CA)
; Reynertson; Donald J.; (Burr Ridge, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Snap-on Incorporated |
Kenosha |
WI |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Snap-on Incorporated
Kenosha
WI
|
Family ID: |
68160159 |
Appl. No.: |
16/374391 |
Filed: |
April 3, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62657364 |
Apr 13, 2018 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B25B 23/1425 20130101;
B25B 23/14 20130101; B25B 23/147 20130101; B25B 23/1456 20130101;
B25B 23/1405 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B25B 23/14 20060101
B25B023/14; B25B 23/142 20060101 B25B023/142 |
Claims
1. A tool adapted to apply torque to a work piece that has a target
amount of torque or angle that is to be applied to the work piece,
comprising: a sensor adapted to measure an amount of torque or
angle applied to the work piece, a first indicator adapted to:
illuminate at a first flashing rate when a first measured amount of
torque or angle is applied to the work piece; illuminate at a
second flashing rate, greater than the first flashing rate, when a
second measured amount of torque or angle is applied to the work
piece; and illuminate at a solid state when a third measured amount
of torque or angle is applied to the work piece.
2. The tool of claim 1, wherein the first measured amount is about
40% of the target amount of torque or angle that is to be applied
to the work piece, the second measured amount is about 60% of the
target amount of torque or angle that is to be applied to the work
piece, and the third measured amount is about 80% of the target
amount of torque or angle that is to be applied to the work
piece.
3. The tool of claim 1, further comprising a second indicator
adapted to illuminate with a solid state when a fourth measured
amount of torque or angle applied to the work piece is about 100%
of the target amount of torque or angle that is to be applied to
the work piece.
4. The tool of claim 1, further comprising a third indicator
adapted to illuminate with a solid state when a fifth measured
amount of torque or angle applied to the work piece is more than
100% of the target amount of torque or angle that is to be applied
to the work piece.
5. The tool of claim 1, wherein the first indicator includes more
than one indicator arranged in a ring type shape around a
longitudinal axis of the tool.
6. The tool of claim 5, further comprising a body portion adapted
to be gripped by a user, and a head portion proximal to an end of
the body portion, wherein the first indicator is disposed between
the body portion and the head portion.
7. The tool of claim 6, wherein the tool is an in-line type
tool.
8. A method for indicating an amount of torque applied to a work
piece that has a target amount of torque or angle that is to be
applied to the work piece, comprising: measuring the amount of
torque or angle applied to the work piece; illuminating a first
indicator at a first flashing rate when the measured amount of
torque or angle is about 40% of the target amount of torque or
angle that is to be applied to the work piece; illuminating the
first indicator at a second flashing rate, greater than the first
flashing rate, when the measured amount of torque or angle is about
60% of the target amount of torque or angle that is to be applied
to the work piece; and illuminating the first indicator at a solid
state when the measured amount of torque or angle is about 80% of
the target amount of torque or angle that is to be applied to the
work piece.
9. The method of claim 8, further comprising illuminating a second
indicator at a solid state when the measured amount of torque or
angle is about 100% of the target amount of torque or angle that is
to be applied to the work piece.
10. The method of claim 8, further comprising illuminating a third
indicator at a solid state when the measured amount of torque or
angle is greater than the target amount of torque or angle that is
applied to the work piece.
11. The method of claim 8, wherein the first indicator includes
more than one indicator arranged in a ring type shape around a
longitudinal axis of a tool.
12. A tool adapted to apply torque to a work piece that has a
target amount of torque or angle that is to be applied to the work
piece, comprising: a sensor adapted to measure an amount of torque
or angle applied to the work piece a first indicator adapted to:
illuminate at a first flashing rate when the measured amount of
torque or angle applied to the work piece is about 40% of the
target amount of torque or angle that is to be applied to the work
piece; illuminate at a second flashing rate, greater than the first
flashing rate, when the measured amount of torque or angle applied
to the work piece is about 60% of the target amount of torque or
angle that is to be applied to the work piece; and illuminate with
a solid state when the measured amount of torque or angle applied
to the work piece is about 80% of the target amount of torque or
angle that is to be applied to the work piece; a second indicator
adapted to illuminate with a solid state when the measured amount
of torque or angle applied to the work piece is about 100% of the
target amount of torque or angle that is to be applied to the work
piece; and a third indicator adapted to illuminate with a solid
state when the measured amount of torque or angle applied to the
work piece is more than 100% of the target amount of torque or
angle that is to be applied to the work piece.
13. The tool of claim 12, wherein each of the first, second and
third indicators includes more than one indicator arranged in a
ring type shape around a longitudinal axis of the tool.
14. The tool of claim 13, further comprising a body portion adapted
to be gripped by a user, and a head portion proximal to an end of
the body portion, wherein the first, second, and third indicators
are disposed between the body portion and the head portion.
15. The tool of claim 14, wherein the tool is an in-line type tool.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/657,364, filed on Apr. 13, 2018, entitled
System and Method for Indicating Torque, the contents of which are
incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to torque
application tools. More particularly, the present invention relates
to torque application tools adapted to indicate torque and angle
target values.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Typical torque application tools, such as screwdrivers or
ratchet tools, may be used to apply torque to a fastener. Some
mechanical and electronic torque application tools have indicators
that indicate an approaching and/or achieved target torque value to
a user. However, these indicators are limited, and are typically
audible (such as beeps) or a display of numbers on a display
screen. Audible indicators can be difficult to hear in loud
environments. Additionally, a display on a display screen can be
difficult to see, because the display screen may be obstructed by a
hand of the user when the torque screwdriver is being used.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention relates broadly to torque application
tools, such as a torque screwdriver, with one or more light
indicators disposed in a ring shape around the tool. The light
indicators may be positioned proximal to a head of the tool, which
allows for unobstructed viewing by a user. The light indicators are
adapted to indicate amounts of torque and/or angle applied to a
work piece, such as a fastener. For example, the light indicators
may flash at a first flashing rate when about 40% of a target
torque or angle value is applied; flash at a second flashing rate
(greater or faster than the first flashing rate) when about 60% of
the target torque or angle value is applied; and illuminate at a
solid state when about 80% of the target torque or angle value is
applied.
[0005] In an embodiment, a tool adapted to apply torque to a work
piece is disclosed. The tool includes a first indicator adapted to
illuminate at a first flashing rate when about 40% of a target
torque or angle value is applied to the work piece; illuminate at a
second flashing rate, greater than the first flashing rate, when
about 60% of the target torque or angle value is applied to the
work piece; and illuminate at a solid state when about 80% of the
target torque or angle value is applied to the work piece.
[0006] In another embodiment, a method for indicating an amount of
torque applied to a work piece is disclosed. The method includes
illuminating a first indicator at a first flashing rate when about
40% of a target torque or angle value is applied to the work piece;
illuminating the first indicator at a second flashing rate, greater
than the first flashing rate, when about 60% of the target torque
or angle value is applied to the work piece; and illuminating the
first indicator at a solid state when about 80% of the target
torque or angle value is applied to the work piece.
[0007] In another embodiment, a tool adapted to apply torque to a
work piece is disclosed. The tool includes a first indicator
adapted to illuminate at a first flashing rate when about 40% of a
target torque or angle value is applied to the work piece;
illuminate at a second flashing rate, greater than the first
flashing rate, when about 60% of the target torque or angle value
is applied to the work piece; and illuminate at a solid state when
about 80% of the target torque or angle value is applied to the
work piece. The tool further includes a second indicator adapted to
illuminate at a solid state when the target torque or angle value
is applied to the work piece. The tool also includes a third
indicator adapted to illuminate at a solid state when an amount
greater than the target torque or angle value is applied to the
work piece.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the
subject matter sought to be protected, there is illustrated in the
accompanying drawing embodiments thereof, from an inspection of
which, when considered in connection with the following
description, the subject matter sought to be protected, its
construction and operation, and many of its advantages, should be
readily understood and appreciated.
[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a torque application tool
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0010] FIGS. 2 and 3 are first and second side views of the torque
application tool of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0011] FIG. 4 is an exemplary block diagram conceptually
illustrating example components of the torque application tool of
FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0012] FIG. 5 is an exemplary process flow diagram illustrating
operations of illuminating indicators of the torque application
tool of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0013] FIG. 6 is another exemplary process flow diagram
illustrating operations of illuminating indicators of the torque
application tool of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0014] FIG. 7 is an exemplary process flow diagram illustrating
operations of setting a tolerance range of the torque application
tool of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0015] While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many
different forms, there is shown in the drawings, and will herein be
described in detail, a preferred embodiment of the invention with
the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered
as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not
intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to embodiments
illustrated. As used herein, the term "present invention" is not
intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention and is instead
a term used to discuss exemplary embodiments of the invention for
explanatory purposes only.
[0016] The present invention relates broadly to torque application
tools, such as a torque screwdriver, with one or more light
indicators disposed in a ring shape around the tool. It will be
appreciated that while the present invention is shown as being an
in-line screwdriver or ratcheting tool for exemplary purposes, the
present invention is not so limited, and can be used with any type
of torque application tool. The light indicators may be positioned
proximal to a head of the tool, which allows for unobstructed
viewing by a user. The light indicators are adapted to indicate
amounts of torque values and/or angular rotation as the tool is
used to tighten or install a work piece, such as a fastener. For
example, the light indicators may flash at a first flashing rate,
when about 40% of a target torque or angle value is applied; flash
at a second flashing rate (greater or faster than the first
flashing rate) when about 60% of the target torque or angle value
is applied; and illuminate at a solid state when about 80% of the
target torque or angle value is applied.
[0017] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, a torque application tool 100, such
as a torque screwdriver or ratcheting tool, is illustrated. The
tool 100 includes a body portion 102 (also referred to as a body
102), a head portion 104 (also referred to as a head 104) coupled
to the body 102, a light ring 106 disposed between the head 104 and
the body 102, and a drive 108 extending from the head 104. The tool
100 is adapted to apply torque to a work piece, such as a fastener,
via an adapter, bit, or socket coupled to the drive 108, such as a
bi-directional ratcheting square or hexagonal drive. As
illustrated, the drive 108 is a "female" connector designed to
receive a male counterpart. However, the drive 108 may be a "male"
connector designed to fit into or penetrate a female counterpart.
The drive may also be structured to directly engage a work piece
without coupling to an adapter, bit, or socket.
[0018] The body 102 may also function as a handle, and be gripped
by a user to apply torque to the work piece. Accordingly, the body
102 may include a textured grip to improve a user's grasp of the
tool 100 during torquing operations. The body 102 may also house a
control unit 110 of the tool 100. The control unit 110 may include
a user interface, such as a user interface comprising at least one
button 112 and a display screen 114. The display screen 114 may
optionally be touch-sensitive, with software or firmware executed
by a processor or controller of the control unit 110 providing
virtual on-screen controls. Instructions and other information can
be input directly into the tool 100 via the user interface. During
torque application operations, the display 114 may display
information, such as, for example, torque and/or angle information.
As will be discussed below, the body 102 and/or head 104 may also
house one or more sensors used to sense and measure the amount of
torque applied to a work piece via the drive 108, and the amount of
angle of rotation applied to the work piece via the drive 108. The
tool 100 may also include an orientation sensor to determine the
angle of a longitudinal axis of the body 102 relative to "down"
(that is, relative to the force of gravity).
[0019] As described below, the tool 100 can measure, record, and
display torque and angle data in substantially real time during
torquing operations, as well as transmit that data in real time to
an external device (such as, an external computing device, mobile
device, etc.). In the context of the present invention, "real time"
means "without significant delay" (e.g., measurement and processing
delays not exceeding one second per data sample). Torque
application and angle data may be logged and stored with a time
index by the tool 100 and/or a software application on the external
device.
[0020] The light ring 106 may include one or more illuminating
indicators 116, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs). In an
embodiment, the LEDs are multiple color LEDs. The indicators 116
are equally spaced 360 degrees around a longitudinal axis of the
tool 100, and between the head 104 and the body 102. This allows
one or more of the indicators 116 to be visible to the user during
a torquing operation. For example, during a torquing operation, the
user may grasp the body 102, and the user's hand may obstruct the
display screen 114. However, the light ring 106 remains
unobstructed by the user's hand since the light ring 106 is
proximal to the head 104 between the head 104 and the body 102. In
some embodiments, the light ring 106 may be angled or oriented to
face in a direction towards a rear of the body 102 (i.e., away from
the drive 108), and thereby towards the user.
[0021] As mentioned, the indicators 116 may be multiple color LEDs.
In this respect, the indicators 116 may include first indicators
(such as indicators 116a illustrated in FIG. 4) adapted to
illuminate yellow, second indicators (such as indicators 116b
illustrated in FIG. 4) adapted to illuminate green, and third
indicators (such as indicators 116c illustrated in FIG. 4) adapted
to illuminate red, for example. It should be appreciated that
different color indicators may also be used.
[0022] The different colored first, second, and third indicators
are used to indicate to the user, that the amount of applied torque
and/or angular rotation is approaching a target torque and/or angle
value, the target torque and/or angle value has been reached, and
when an upper limit of the target torque and/or angle value has
been exceeded. As described, the light ring 106 (including the
indicators 116) are proximal to a head 104 of the tool 100 so the
indicators 116 are not obstructed by the user's hand when using the
tool 100. The indicators 116 are also placed in a ring pattern
allowing 360 degrees of viewing during rotation and/or use of the
tool 100.
[0023] In an embodiment, the indicators 116 indicate amounts of
applied torque and/or angle as a percentage of the target torque
and/or angle values. For example, the first indicators (illustrated
as first LEDs 116a in FIG. 4) are used to indicate increasing
amounts of applied torque and/or angle. The first indicators flash
at a first flashing rate when the amount of applied torque and/or
angle is about 40% of the target torque and/or angle values. The
first indicators flash at a second flashing rate (greater or faster
than the first flashing rate) when the amount of applied torque
and/or angle is about 60% of the target torque and/or angle values.
The first indicators are illuminated in a solid state (i.e., are
illuminated and do not flash) when the amount of applied torque
and/or angle is about 80% of the target torque and/or angle values.
This sequencing of the first indicators provides an indication of
the rate at which the amount or torque and/or angle is being
applied in reference to the target torque and/or angle values, and
allows the user to adjust the rate as the target torque and/or
angle value approaches to avoid over torquing or over rotating.
[0024] In an embodiment, the second indicators (illustrated as LEDs
116b in FIG. 4) are illuminated in a solid state (i.e., are
illuminated and do not flash) when the amount of applied torque
and/or angle reaches the target torque and/or angle values. The
green color of the second indicators provides the user with a
positive indication the target torque and/or angle value has been
reached, following the sequence of the first indicators. When the
second indicators are illuminated, the first indicators turn
off.
[0025] In an embodiment, the third indicators (illustrated as LEDs
116c in FIG. 4) are illuminated in a solid state (i.e., are
illuminated and do not flash) when the amount of applied torque
and/or angle reaches an over-limit torque and/or angle value. The
over-limit value is the target torque and/or angle value plus a
tolerance value, which may be set via a torque/angle tolerance
setting. The red color of the third indicators differentiate them
from the yellow and green colors of the respective first and second
indicators. The second indicators also turn off when the third
indicators are illuminated. The red color of the third indicators
may also indicate to the user that corrective action may be
necessary.
[0026] Other means of indicating a progress toward the target
torque and/or angle can be implemented without departing from the
spirit and scope of the present application. For example, audible
indications can be activated (using the speaker/transduce 126
illustrated in FIG. 4), and/or tactile indications can be activated
(using the haptic vibrator 128 illustrated in FIG. 4).
[0027] FIG. 4 is an exemplary block diagram conceptually
illustrating examples of the components of the tool 100 of FIG. 1.
The tool 100 may include one or more controllers/processors 118, a
memory 120, non-volatile storage 122, and a wireless communications
transceiver 124. Each controller/processor 118 may include a
central processing unit (CPU) for processing data and
computer-readable instructions. The processor/controller 118
retrieves instructions from data storage 122 via a bus 126, using
the memory 120 for runtime temporary storage of instructions and
data. The memory 120 may include volatile and/or nonvolatile random
access memory (RAM). While components are illustrated in FIG. 4 as
being connected via the bus 126, components may also be connected
to other components in addition to (or instead of) being connected
to other components via the bus 126.
[0028] Data storage 122 stores the instructions, including
instructions to manage illumination of the indicators 116 and
communication with the external device. The data storage component
122 may include one-or-more types non-volatile solid-state storage,
such as flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), magnetoresistive RAM
(MRAM), phase-change memory, etc. The tool 100 may also include an
input/output interface to connect to removable or external
non-volatile memory and/or storage (such as a removable memory
card, memory key drive, networked storage, etc.). Such an
input/output interface may be a wired or embedded interface (not
illustrated) and/or may comprise the wireless communications
transceiver 124.
[0029] Computer instructions for operating the tool 100 and its
various components may be executed by the controller/processor 118,
using the memory 120 as temporary "working" storage at runtime. The
computer instructions may be stored in a non-transitory manner in
non-volatile memory 120, storage 122, or an external device.
Alternatively, some-or-all of the executable instructions may be
embedded in hardware or firmware in addition to or instead of
software.
[0030] The tool 100 may include multiple input and output
interfaces. These interfaces may include the radio transceiver 124,
one-or-more buttons 112, one-or-more light-emitting diodes LEDs 116
(including first indicators 116a, second indicators 116b, and third
indicators 116c), a speaker or audio transducer 126, a haptics
vibrator 128, one-or-more torque sensors 130, one-or-more angle
sensors 132, and an orientation sensor 134. The torque sensor 130
may include, for example, one-or-more of a torque transducer, a
strain gauge, a magnetoelastic torque sensor, and a surface
acoustic wave (SAW) sensor. The angle sensors 132 may comprise, for
example, one-or-more of a rotational angle sensor and an electronic
gyroscope (such as a two-or-three axes gyroscope). The orientation
sensor 134 may comprise a three-axes electronic accelerometer or
gravity sensor to determine the orientation of the longitudinal
axis of the tool 100 relative to "down."
[0031] Depending on the type of torque sensor 130 used,
analog-to-digital (A/D) converters 136 may receive analog signals
from the torque sensor 130, outputting digital signals to the
processor/controller 118. Likewise, A/D converters 138 may receive
analog signals from the angle sensor 132, and A/D converters 140
may receive analog signals from the orientation sensor 134,
outputting digital signals to the processor/controller 118. The A/D
converters 136/138/140 may be discrete, integrated with/in the
processor/controller 118, or integrated with/in their respective
sensors 136/138/140.
[0032] The number of, and need for, the A/D converters 136/138/140
is dependent on the technology used for each sensor 130/132/134.
Multiple A/D converters may be provided to accommodate as many
signals as needed, such as if the angle sensor 132 provides analog
outputs for a plurality of gyroscope axes, or if the orientation
sensor 134 provides analog outputs for a plurality of accelerometer
axes. Signal conditioning electronics (not illustrated) may also be
included as standalone circuitry, integrated with/in the
processor/controller 118, or integrated with/in the respective
sensors 130/132/134, to convert non-linear outputs generated by a
component of a sensor 130/132/134 into a linear signal.
[0033] Instructions executed by the processor/controller 118
receive data from the sensors 130/132/134, such as torque and angle
values. From that data, the processor/controller 118 may determine
various information, such as the duration that torque has been or
should be applied to a work piece.
[0034] The sensor data and information can be logged in
substantially real time or at a predetermined sampling rate and
stored in the memory 120 and/or storage 122. The sensor data and
information may also be transmitted to the external device via a
communication link 142 (which may include an antenna) for further
analysis and review. For example, the communication link 142 may
use a protocol such as Wi-Fi Direct, or a personal area network
(PAN) protocol such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth Smart (also known as
Bluetooth low energy), wireless USB, or ZigBee (IEEE 802.15.4). The
communication link 142 may be a wireless local area network (WLAN)
link such as a flavor of Wi-Fi, or a cellular communications data
protocol associated with mobile broadband, LTE, GSM, CDMA, WiMAX,
High Speed Packet Access (HSPA), Universal Mobile
Telecommunications System (UMTS), etc.
[0035] "Data" is/are values that are processed to make them
meaningful or useful "information." However, as used herein, the
terms data and information should be interpreted to be
interchangeable, with data including information and information
including data. For example, where data is stored, transmitted,
received, or output, that may include data, information, or a
combination thereof.
[0036] The radio transceiver 124 comprises a transmitter, a
receiver, and associated encoders, modulators, demodulators, and
decoders. The transceiver 124 manages the radio communication
links, establishing the communications link 142 with the external
device via one-or-more antennas embedded in the tool 100, enabling
bidirectional communication between the processor/controller 118
and the external device. The communications link 142 may be a
direct link between the tool 100 and the external device, or may be
an indirect link through one-or-more intermediate components, such
as via a Wi-Fi router or mesh connection (not illustrated).
[0037] The tool 100 also includes a power source 144 to power the
processor/controller 118, the bus 126, and other electronic
components. For example, the power source 144 may be one-or-more
batteries arranged in the body 102. However, the power source 144
is not limited to batteries, and other technologies may be used
such as fuel cells. The tool 100 may also include components to
recharge the power source 144, such as organic or polymer
photovoltaic cells arranged along the tool 100, and/or an interface
by which to receive an external charge, such as a Universal Serial
Bus (USB) port or an inductive pick-up, along with associated
charging-control electronics.
[0038] The display 114 may be used by software/firmware executed by
the processor/controller 118 to display information for the user to
view and interpret. Such information may be formatted as text,
graphics, or a combination thereof. The display 114 may also be
used to provide feedback when information is entered into tool 100
(for example, via the buttons 112 and/or a touch-sensitive
interface integrated with the display 114 itself). The display 114
may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) display, an organic light
emitting diode (OLED) display, an electronic paper display, or any
kind of black-and-white or color display that has suitable
power-consumption requirements and volume to facilitate integration
into the tool 100.
[0039] FIG. 5 is an exemplary process flow diagram illustrating a
method 200 of illuminating indicators of the torque application
tool of FIG. 1, based on torque values. The steps of the method 200
may be performed using the components of the tool 100 illustrated
in FIG. 4. For example, the processor/controller 118 may receive
torque data, such as a value of an amount of torque applied to a
work piece measured by and received from the torque sensor 130,
illustrated as block 202. The processor/controller 118 may receive
the torque data in real time or at predetermined intervals during a
torquing operation. At block 204, the processor/controller 118
determines whether the measured amount of torque applied to the
work piece is greater than or equal to 40% and less than 60% of the
target torque value for the torquing operation (i.e., the amount of
torque applied to the work piece is between about 40% and 60% of
the target torque value). If YES, then the processor/controller 118
causes the first indicators 116a to flash at a first flashing rate,
illustrated as block 206, and the method 200 proceeds back to block
202. If NO, the method 200 proceeds to decision block 208.
[0040] At block 208, the processor/controller 118 determines
whether the measured amount of torque applied to the work piece is
greater than or equal to 60% and less than 80% of the target torque
value for the torquing operation (i.e., the amount of torque
applied to the work piece is between about 60% and 80% of the
target torque value). If YES, then the processor/controller 118
causes the first indicators 116a to flash at a second flashing rate
(that is greater or faster than the first flashing rate),
illustrated as block 210, and the method 200 proceeds back to block
202. If NO, the method 200 proceeds to decision block 212.
[0041] At block 212, the processor/controller 118 determines
whether the measured amount of torque applied to the work piece is
greater than or equal to 80% of the target torque value for the
torquing operation and less than the target torque value minus a
tolerance value, such as about 0% to about 10% (i.e., the amount of
torque applied to the work piece is about 80%, but has not yet
reached the target torque value). If YES, then the
processor/controller 118 causes the first indicators 116a to
illuminate is a solid state (i.e., remain illuminated without
flashing), illustrated as block 214, and the method 200 proceeds
back to block 202. If NO, the method 200 proceeds to decision block
216.
[0042] At block 216, the processor/controller 118 determines
whether the measured amount of torque applied to the work piece is
about equal to the target torque value for the torquing operation
plus or minus the tolerance value. If YES, then the
processor/controller 118 causes the second indicators 116b to
illuminate is a solid state (i.e., remain illuminated without
flashing), illustrated as block 218. In this respect, the second
indictors indicate that the target torque value for the torquing
operation has been reached. However, if NO, the method 200 proceeds
to decision block 220.
[0043] At block 220, the processor/controller 118 determines
whether the measured amount of torque applied to the work piece is
greater than the target torque value for the torquing operation
plus the tolerance value. If YES, then the processor/controller 118
causes the third indicators 116c to illuminate is a solid state
(i.e., remain illuminated without flashing), illustrated as block
222. In this respect, the third indictors indicate that the target
torque value for the torquing operation has been past, and an
over-limit condition has occurred. However, if NO, the method 200
proceeds back to block 202.
[0044] In accordance with the method 200 and during a torquing
operation, the tool 100 causes the indicators of the light ring 106
to flash yellow when the measured amount of torque applied to the
work piece is about 40% of the target torque value, flash yellow
faster when the measured amount of torque applied to the work piece
is about 60% of the target torque value, illuminate yellow when the
measured amount of torque applied to the work piece is about 80% of
the target torque value, and illuminate green when the amount of
torque applied to the work piece has reached the target torque
value.
[0045] A similar method may be applied to measurements of angle.
FIG. 6 is an exemplary process flow diagram illustrating a method
300 of illuminating indicators of the torque application tool of
FIG. 1, based on angle values. The steps of the method 300 may be
performed using the components of the tool 100 illustrated in FIG.
4. For example, the processor/controller 118 may receive angle
data, such as a value of an amount of angular rotation applied to a
work piece measured by and received from the angle sensor 132,
illustrated as block 302. The processor/controller 118 may receive
the angle data in real time or at predetermined intervals during a
torquing operation. At block 304, the processor/controller 118
determines whether the measured amount of angular rotation applied
to the work piece is greater than or equal to 40% and less than 60%
of the target angle value for the torquing operation (i.e., the
amount of angular rotation applied to the work piece is between
about 40% and 60% of the target angle value). If YES, then the
processor/controller 118 causes the first indicators 116a to flash
at a first flashing rate, illustrated as block 306, and the method
300 proceeds back to block 302. If NO, the method 300 proceeds to
decision block 308.
[0046] At block 308, the processor/controller 118 determines
whether the measured amount of angular rotation applied to the work
piece is greater than or equal to 60% and less than 80% of the
target angle value for the torquing operation (i.e., the amount of
angular rotation applied to the work piece is between about 60% and
80% of the target angle value). If YES, then the
processor/controller 118 causes the first indicators 116a to flash
at a second flashing rate (that is greater or faster than the first
flashing rate), illustrated as block 310, and the method 300
proceeds back to block 302. If NO, the method 300 proceeds to
decision block 312.
[0047] At block 312, the processor/controller 118 determines
whether the measured amount of angular rotation applied to the work
piece is greater than or equal to 80% of the target angle value for
the torquing operation and less than the target angle value minus a
tolerance value, such as about 0% to about 10% (i.e., the amount of
angular rotation applied to the work piece is about 80%, but has
not yet reached the target angle value). If YES, then the
processor/controller 118 causes the first indicators 116a to
illuminate is a solid state (i.e., remain illuminated without
flashing), illustrated as block 314, and the method 300 proceeds
back to block 302. If NO, the method 300 proceeds to decision block
316.
[0048] At block 316, the processor/controller 118 determines
whether the measured amount of angular rotation applied to the work
piece is about equal to the target angle value for the torquing
operation plus or minus the tolerance value. If YES, then the
processor/controller 118 causes the second indicators 116b to
illuminate is a solid state (i.e., remain illuminated without
flashing), illustrated as block 318. In this respect, the second
indictors indicate that the target angle value for the torquing
operation has been reached. However, if NO, the method 300 proceeds
to decision block 320.
[0049] At block 320, the processor/controller 118 determines
whether the measured amount of angular rotation applied to the work
piece is greater than the target angle value for the torquing
operation plus the tolerance value. If YES, then the
processor/controller 118 causes the third indicators 116c to
illuminate is a solid state (i.e., remain illuminated without
flashing), illustrated as block 322. In this respect, the third
indictors indicate that the target angle value for the torquing
operation has been past, and an over-limit condition has occurred.
However, if NO, the method 300 proceeds back to block 302.
[0050] In accordance with the method 300 and during a torquing
operation, the tool 100 causes the indicators of the light ring 106
to flash yellow when the measured amount of angular rotation
applied to the work piece is about 40% of the target angle value,
flash yellow faster when the measured amount of angular rotation
applied to the work piece is about 60% of the target angle value,
illuminate yellow when the measured amount of angular rotation
applied to the work piece is about 80% of the target angle value,
and illuminate green when the measured amount of angular rotation
applied to the work piece has reached the target angle value.
[0051] The methods 200 and 300 may be applied independently, in
succession, or simultaneously. For example, a torquing operation
may include applying a target torque value to a work piece, and
once the target torque value is reached, applying a target angle to
the work piece. Accordingly, the method 200 may be applied, and
then the method 300 may be applied in succession.
[0052] The tolerance value may also be set by the user prior to a
torquing operation. FIG. 7 is an exemplary process flow diagram
illustrating a method 400 of setting a tolerance range of the
torque application tool of FIG. 1. The steps of the method 400 may
be performed using the components of the tool 100 illustrated in
FIGS. 1 and 4. For example, a user may input a selection of a
torque or angle tolerance setting option provided on the display
114 by activating one or more buttons 112, and the
processor/controller 118 may receive the selection of a torque or
angle tolerance setting option, illustrated as block 402. The
processor/controller 118 may then cause display of a torque or
angle tolerance setting menu on the display 114, illustrated as
block 404.
[0053] The user may then select or input a tolerance amount or
range using the buttons 112. For example, the user may input a plus
or minus tolerance range for the target torque value, a tolerance
for the target angle value, and/or a tolerance range to be applied
to both the target torque and angle values. In an example, the use
may input a plus tolerance range of about 0% to about 10% of the
target torque and/or angle value, and a minus tolerance range of
about 0% to about 10% of the target torque and/or angle value. This
allows for a user to set a narrow or wider acceptable target torque
and/or angle range.
[0054] The processor/controller receives the tolerance amount or
range, illustrated as block 406, and updates the torque or angle
tolerance settings with the tolerance amount or range, illustrated
as block 408. The updated torque or angle tolerance settings may
then be used in a torquing operation.
[0055] As used herein, the term "coupled" and its functional
equivalents are not intended to necessarily be limited to direct,
mechanical coupling of two or more components. Instead, the term
"coupled" and its functional equivalents are intended to mean any
direct or indirect mechanical, electrical, or chemical connection
between two or more objects, features, work pieces, and/or
environmental matter. "Coupled" is also intended to mean, in some
examples, one object being integral with another object. As used
herein, the term "a" or "one" may include one or more items unless
specifically stated otherwise.
[0056] The matter set forth in the foregoing description and
accompanying drawings is offered by way of illustration only and
not as a limitation. While particular embodiments have been shown
and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that
changes and modifications may be made without departing from the
broader aspects of the inventors' contribution. The actual scope of
the protection sought is intended to be defined in the following
claims when viewed in their proper perspective based on the prior
art.
* * * * *